The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) has stepped in to settle a disagreement between Monarch Steel Mill Limited and the Olorunsogo Ipetoro Community Development Association in Ogijo, Sagamu. The intervention followed a formal complaint filed by the community chairman, Michael Bilesanmi, regarding the steel mill’s expansion strategies and property acquisition methods.
Kehinde Bello, the General Manager of OGEPA, organized a meeting between the firm and community representatives to foster a peaceful resolution. During the talks, Bello underscored that industrial growth must respect environmental standards and the well-being of nearby residents. He clarified that the proposed expansion was intended to create a buffer zone to mitigate negative impacts on the local population.
Key stakeholders reached a consensus that Monarch Steel Mill must not force residents to surrender their land. The acquisition process will now be limited strictly to those property owners who choose to sell voluntarily. All participants endorsed these terms, expressing hope that the agreement will ensure harmonious relations and responsible industrial development moving forward.